Nigeria's film and television industry is facing a significant shift, with filmmaker and producer Rogba Arimoro calling for a move away from commissioned productions. Instead, Arimoro advocates for creators to build scalable intellectual property that can compete globally.
The current model, where broadcasters finance productions and retain ownership, is being challenged by changes in the global entertainment landscape. Streaming services, international co-productions, and new financing mechanisms are pushing Nigerian creators to rethink how their stories are developed, financed, and distributed.
Arimoro, who has worked on commissioned television projects, is now focusing on packaging projects that align with global financing and distribution frameworks. His experience at MIP London, where his series Ivory Esq. was selected for the Best of Africa Pitch, highlighted the importance of structuring projects for cross-border distribution.
The filmmaker is also expanding into feature film production, with his upcoming project The Wrench being positioned for international film festivals and cross-border distribution. Industry observers say this shift reflects a broader transformation within Nigeria's creative sector, where producers are exploring rights retention, co-production agreements, and content development strategies.
Arimoro's emphasis on scalable intellectual property is a crucial step for Nigeria's film and television industry. By focusing on retaining and structuring intellectual property, creators can position their projects for cross-border distribution and long-term value creation. This shift will ultimately determine the future of the sector, with the ability to combine storytelling with business strategy, financing, and global market access becoming increasingly essential.
